High Sheriff hosts charity garden party for FORCE

Supporters of FORCE Cancer Charity gathered at Perridge House near Exeter at the kind invitation of The High Sheriff of Devon.

Lady Lucy Studholme offered FORCE the opportunity to use the grounds of her historic country house.

It was the first major social event FORCE has been able to hold since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

“We are extremely grateful to Sir Harry and Lady Studholme for her generosity in offering us the opportunity to stage this very special event,” said FORCE Chief Executive Meriel Fishwick.

“It was our first face-to-face FORCE event for many moons and all the different components (including no rain) led to a perfect afternoon,” she added.

The grounds at Perridge are not open to the public so this was a unique chance to enjoy the gardens, acres of woodland and beautiful walks.

Around 200 people gathered to enjoy the setting and socialise with some of the many people who support FORCE.

Lady Studholme said: “It was an absolute joy to host a fundraising event for the wonderful FORCE Cancer Charity - so lovely to see so many people reunited after so many months apart, enjoying the garden and the sunshine.”

The Studholme family’s generosity not only enabled FORCE to reconnect with its supporters but also raise £3,500 towards its work in supporting local people affected by cancer.

“It was a wonderful fundraising opportunity for FORCE after a year that has seen our income significantly impacted by the COVID pandemic,” said Sarah Daniels, Head of Income Generation at FORCE.